Nestled beneath towering Pikes Peak is Garden of the Gods. This Natural National Landmark is one of the most popular outdoor destinations near Colorado Springs. 300-foot sandstone rock formations protrude from the ground, surrounding which lush greenery lines the many trails.
In this article, we’ll share what you can do at the Garden of the Gods, how to get there, and more to help you plan an epic adventure.
What Can You Do in the Garden of the Gods Park?
Garden of the Gods has a lot to offer visitors. From free excursions to experiences you won’t soon forget, here are the top things you can do when you visit the Garden of the Gods.
1. Go for a Hike
Hiking is the most popular way to experience the Garden of the Gods. You don’t need any special equipment, just your hiking shoes and a sense of adventure. With 15 miles of trails, there’s plenty to explore for a full day trip.
2. Explore the Biking Trails
Mountain biking trails at Garden of the Gods are great for all levels. Family mountain biking is quite popular as the paved roads and relatively flat trails are a wonderful place to first get into biking. Check out the biking trails map to plan your trip.
For those who want the thrill of biking without so much physical exertion, try electric bike rentals from Amp’d Adventures. They also offer guided biking tours for those who want an insider’s tour of all the best spots.
3. Try Horseback Riding
Animals and nature lovers alike will enjoy riding on horseback through beautiful rock formations and lush green vegetation nestled against towering Pikes Peak. To make your excursion a trip to remember, schedule a horseback riding tour with Academy Riding Stables.
4. Climb Rock Formations
Whether you’re a new or experienced rock climber, you can try your hand at climbing some of the breathtaking red rock formations at Garden of the Gods.
For experienced climbers, go out on your own and scale steep rock faces for stunning views. All you need to do is fill out a free registration form and follow the park rules.
If you’re a beginning climber, there are plenty of trustworthy outfitters in the area that can take you on an adventure you won’t soon forget.
5. Take a Jeep Tour
Adventures Out West leads scenic Jeep tours through the Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, and Cheyenne Canyon. Enjoy the gorgeous Colorado weather as you zoom through the foothills and around rock formations in the Pikes Peak Region.
6. Roll Through on a Segway
A Segway tour might not be the first way you’d imagine touring an outdoor destination, but it’s a surprisingly thrilling way to take in the scenery. With steep hills and narrow paths, Adventures Out West’s segway tour is sure to get your heart pounding.
You must have an adventurous spirit and pretty good balance to safely experience a Segway trip through Garden of the Gods. During your trip, your guide will share lots of history about the area, all while spotting wildlife and helping you have a memorable experience.
7. Free Guided Tours
Garden of the Gods is one of the few places that you’ll find free guided nature tours. Local guides lead nature walks and share fascinating information about the region. From history and geology to local flora and fauna, a guided tour is a wonderful way to learn more about Garden of the Gods.
Is the Garden of the Gods Free?
There is no fee to enter Garden of the Gods. You can visit any day of the year for $0.
Visiting Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is open every day of the year. Their hours are:
- May 1 – October 31: 5 AM – 11 PM
- November 1 – April 30: 5 AM – 9 PM
The easiest way to get to Garden of the Gods is to drive. Simply enter 1805 N. 30th St, Colorado Springs, Colorado into your smartphone and park for free.
During the peak summer months, Garden of the Gods runs a free shuttle. Click here to learn more about the Garden of the Gods shuttle.
Where to Stay When Visiting Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s one of many popular tourist attractions in the Pikes Peak region. Some of the must-do’s include the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, world-renowned whitewater rafting, Cave of the Winds, and Pikes Peak.
Royal Gorge Cabins is located right near the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. We offer luxury cabins and comfortable glamping tents for couples and families exploring this beautiful region of Colorado. Our cabins and glampsites are an extraordinary home base for outdoor adventure and sightseeing.
